What types of driving jobs can you qualify for without a CDL?

A:

Quick Answer

A CDL is usually not required if the vehicle used in the job weighs less than 26,000 pounds, has no more than two axles without a trailer, and is not transporting hazardous materials or very large amounts of passengers. Some examples include local deliveries and taxi drivers.

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Delivery drivers that cover local routes and drive a van or small truck generally do not need CDLs unless the material is hazardous. Food, beverage, moving and medical supply companies often hire for these positions. Local delivery route jobs with the United States Postal Service and major shipping companies like UPS and FedEx also generally do not require a CDL.

Taxi and limo drivers are also not required to hold CDLs, as their vehicles do not accommodate enough passengers to require one, but some states require them to get a separate operators license. However, drivers of shuttles or "party buses" may be required to have a CDL since the passenger load may exceed 16.

Rental car companies also hire drivers to return their cars and trucks from one location to another. This may involve driving long distances between different cities or even different states.

Locomotive engineers are also exempt from CDL requirements despite carrying more than 16 passengers.